Realizing the Value of Nature to Unlock Billions for a Stronger, More Resilient Canadian Economy
Canada doesn’t have to choose between nature and a strong economy. When properly valued, the essential benefits provided by our forests, farmlands and waters — such as clean air and water, climate regulation and fire resilience — can build prosperity for generations to come.
A new report, Realizing the Value of Nature to Unlock Billions for a Stronger, More Resilient Canadian Economy, reveals actionable solutions to build a future that protects, restores and values nature as the foundation of our economy, sovereignty and well-being. This blueprint from Canada’s Nature Advantage — a network supported by Nature United and leaders in forestry, agriculture, finance and Indigenous business — aligns with the vision outlined in the Government of Canada’s A Force for Nature strategy and the views of 93% of Canadians who see nature as one of our most valuable economic assets.
“This research is proof that Canada does not need to choose between nature and economy,” said Hadley Archer, Executive Director, Nature United. “Our forests, farmlands and waters provide essential benefits such as clean air and water, climate regulation and fire resilience. This report reveals the true value of Canada’s vast natural landscapes and shows us how to invest in them as the key to a thriving economy that benefits people and the planet.”
Consolidating findings from six independent research papers from Oxford Economics, Serecon, UBC Professor Dr. Tara Atleo, Wahkohtowin Development GP, Smart Prosperity Institute and Royal Bank of Canada Climate Action Institute, this report translates the essential value of nature and Natural Climate Solutions into scalable economic opportunities and outlines practical pathways to build a thriving Canadian economy rooted in its working landscapes.
The Government of Canada estimates that our natural ecosystems generate at least $3.6 trillion in value each year. This highlights a significant opportunity for Canada to join likeminded countries that have already shown how markets can be built to attract nature positive investments.
For example, supporting farmers in the adoption of practices such as cover crops and reduced tillage could unlock more than $650 million in net financial returns in the Prairies. While these practices typically take five to ten years to break even, they can generate $2-4 billion in public environmental benefits across the Prairies and Southern Ontario. Benefits include erosion regulation, water purification, pollination, soil nutrient regulation and air quality regulation.
“The Government of Canada estimates that our natural ecosystems generate at least $3.6 trillion in value each year,” says Shaughn McArthur, Director, Government Relations, Nature United. “This highlights a significant opportunity for Canada to join likeminded countries that have already shown how markets can be built to attract nature positive investments and reward business practices that increase our natural wealth.”
There is growing recognition in Canada and around the world that nature is essential to our economic strength. Nature United’s global affiliate, The Nature Conservancy, has also released new research that tells a powerful story about how protecting, restoring and enhancing nature is an essential way to support thriving communities and economies. Nature’s Dividends: The Economic, Health and Safety Benefits of Investing in Nature, compiles research from nearly 1,500 studies and articles.
“The pathways in this report demonstrate that nature can deliver substantial economic, environmental and social value across Canada, but their full adoption remains constrained,” said Martha Rogers, Senior Economist, Nature United’s global affiliate (The Nature Conservancy). “Now is the time for coordinated action. By embracing these solutions, Canada can unlock the full value of its working landscapes, secure long-term prosperity and position itself as a global leader in nature-based economic growth.”
Nature United looks forward to continued collaboration with the Canada’s Nature Advantage network to scale nature-positive economic solutions across Canada to strengthen our national economy while honouring our natural heritage.
Nature United was founded as a Canadian charity in 2014, building on decades of conservation in Canada. Headquartered in Toronto, our organization has field staff located across the country. Nature United supports Indigenous leadership, sustainable economic development and science and large-scale conservation, primarily in British Columbia, the Northwest Territories and Manitoba. Our organization is also working to accelerate Natural Climate Solutions at national and regional scales. To learn more, visit natureunited.ca or follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook.
We are the Canadian affiliate of The Nature Conservancy, a global conservation organization with more than a million members and a diverse team that includes more than 1,000 scientists. Our global organization works in 83 countries and territories (39 by direct conservation impact and 44 through partners) to conserve the lands and waters on which all life depends. To learn more, visit nature.org.